Net zero refers to achieving a balance between the amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced and the amount removed from the atmosphere. This balance is crucial for stabilizing global temperatures. When a country, company, or individual reaches net zero emissions, it signifies that their actions result in no net increase in atmospheric greenhouse gases. This is accomplished by reducing emissions as much as possible and balancing remaining emissions with equivalent carbon removal activities, such as reforestation or direct air capture and storage technologies.
Achieving net zero is essential to mitigate the worst impacts of climate change. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), global carbon dioxide emissions need to reach net zero by around 2050 to keep global warming well below 2°C, and preferably to 1.5°C, compared to pre-industrial levels. This target is critical to prevent catastrophic climate impacts, including extreme weather events, sea level rise, and loss of biodiversity.
India's Net Zero Target is set to achieve net zero emissions by 2070. This commitment was announced at COP26, making India part of the global efforts to combat climate change and align with the Paris Agreement goals.
India's approach includes a comprehensive long-term Low-Carbon Development Strategy, submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). This strategy emphasizes equity, climate justice, and the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC).
India seeks to leverage global partnerships and finance mechanisms to support its green transition. The path to net zero is structured around sustainable development, ensuring that environmental goals do not compromise its developmental and poverty eradication agendas. This balanced approach addresses both domestic needs and global environmental commitments.
Q1. What does net zero mean?
Answer: Net zero means balancing the amount of greenhouse gases emitted with the amount removed from the atmosphere, achieving no net increase in emissions.
Q2. Why is net zero important for climate change?
Answer: Achieving net zero is crucial to mitigate climate change impacts, helping limit global warming to well below 2°C and ideally to 1.5°C.
Q3. When is India aiming for net zero emissions?
Answer: India aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2070, as announced during the COP26 conference.
Q4. What strategies is India implementing for net zero?
Answer: India is focusing on transitioning to low-carbon energy, enhancing energy efficiency, and promoting sustainable urbanization and transport systems.
Q5. How does India's net zero commitment align with global efforts?
Answer: India's commitment aligns with the Paris Agreement, contributing to global efforts to combat climate change while considering developmental needs.
Question 1: What does achieving net zero emissions entail?
A) Reducing emissions only
B) Balancing emissions with removal
C) Complete cessation of emissions
D) Increasing emissions for development
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: By what year does India aim to achieve net zero emissions?
A) 2030
B) 2040
C) 2050
D) 2070
Correct Answer: D
Question 3: Which international agreement is India’s net zero target associated with?
A) Kyoto Protocol
B) Montreal Protocol
C) Paris Agreement
D) Geneva Convention
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: What is a key strategy for India to achieve net zero emissions?
A) Expanding fossil fuels
B) Promoting sustainable transport
C) Reducing forest cover
D) Enhancing emissions standards
Correct Answer: B
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